Reeves’ Spirea

(Spiraea cantoniensis)

Reeves’ Spirea (Spiraea cantoniensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Spiraea cantoniensis, commonly known as Reeves’ Spirea or Reeves’ Meadowsweet, is a deciduous shrub native to forest margins, stream banks, and scrub areas in Southeast China. It typically grows to a height and width of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters). This spirea species is known for its cascading clusters of white, sometimes pink-tinged flowers that bloom profusely in late spring, creating a striking display. The plant has a rounded, fountain-like form, with slender branches that arch gracefully. The foliage is a fresh green, turning yellow in the fall, adding seasonal interest.

Reeves’ Spirea is valued for its ease of maintenance and the profusion of flowers that attract pollinators. It is commonly used for border planting, as a specimen in residential gardens, or for naturalizing in informal areas. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, though it is adaptable to various soil types. Regular watering is important, especially in dry conditions, but it can tolerate some drought once established. Pruning after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages a more abundant bloom the following year. While generally pest-free, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew in humid climates.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 4-6 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hedges, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Forest margins, stream banks, and scrub areas in Southeast China

Other Names

Common Names: Reeve’s Spiraea, Bridalwreath Spirea, Double White May, Cape May, May Bush, Buque De Noiva, Kantonspirea, 공조팝나무, Ma Ye Xiu Qiu, Ko-Demari

Scientific Names: , Spiraea cantoniensis, Spiraea lanceolata, Spiraea cantoniensis var. lanceata, Spiraea cantoniensis f. lanceata, Spiraea chamaedrifolia, Spiraea cantoniensis f. lanceolata, Spiraea reevesiana, Spiraea cantoniensis var. cantoniensis, Spiraea caerulescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Spiraea cantoniensis Lour.